Great Ouse Relief Channel — Denver Sluice to Saddlebow

River level

The lowdown

• This is a large, exposed waterway running alongside the Great Ouse flood system. Limited shade, plenty of sky and often a fair bit of weather to deal with.
• The stretch sits within the Denver flood-defence complex, running between Denver Sluice and Saddlebow. Wiggenhall, Magdalen Bridge, Downham Bridge and Stowbridge are useful reference points.
• It’s not a steady, predictable canal-style flow. Tidal surges and changes in water level can really move things about, so check the water before settling into a swim.
• Big bream are the headline act here. Look for roomier areas and features where shoals can gather, then keep things tidy and patient with the feeder.
• There are large roach shoals reported, with hybrids, rudd and tench also named by KLAA. Trotting or a feeder approach can both come into play, depending on the flow.
• Predator anglers target pike and zander. Lure fishing, deadbaiting and livebaiting are allowed only with the required 10lb line, wire trace, forceps and a large landing net.
• Fishing is available from the bank and from boats. Boats are allowed between Denver and St Germans, but you’ll need the KLAA permit in place.
• Access needs a bit of homework. Some banks and tracks are restricted or unsuitable for vehicles, and no vehicles or parking are allowed on the Relief Channel banks.
• It can be a challenging venue, but that’s part of the appeal. Water levels, flow and big open swims mean conditions can change quickly, so stay mobile and keep an eye on the river.
• No fishing from bridges, and keep at least 30 metres clear of power lines. Rods must not be left unattended, with a maximum of three rods on non-enclosed waters.

Methods: Feeder fishing is the obvious starting point for the bream, while trotting can suit the roach, rudd and hybrids when the flow behaves. Pike and zander anglers can use lures, deadbaits or livebaits, following the KLAA tackle rules.

Access & tickets

Day tickets for KLAA rivers are available from bank bailiffs. The current official price is £6.

Fish the club names

bream, roach, rudd, tench, perch, pike, zander

Named by King's Lynn Angling Association across its waters, not for this stretch on its own.

Key rules

• A current Environment Agency rod licence and KLAA permit are required.
• No fishing is permitted from bridges.
• No fishing is permitted within 30 metres of power lines.
• No vehicles are allowed on the banks, and parking on the Relief Channel banks is not permitted.
• No fish may be removed without express permission from the KLAA secretary.
• No more than three rods may be used at once on non-enclosed waters.
• Rods must not be left unattended.
• Gaffs are forbidden. Livebait must be caught from the water where it is used and must be under 5 inches long.

Where it is